Specifically, the angles formed between them.

Now, if we’re getting technical, every planet forms some kind of angle with every other planet in your chart.

​But in astrology, there are specific angles that hold more weight.

Like with human relationships, planetary aspect relationships come in different varieties:

As you can imagine, the type of relationship a planet has (and who it’s with) will influence how it behaves.

Is the Sun friendly with Mars or are they behaving more like arch-enemies?

That can make a difference!

​So when you’re ready (but not before), look at the planet’s aspect relationships and ask yourself how they could help shape your planet.

One of the hardest things about astrology is the vast amount of information in a natal chart.

​A vital skill is knowing what to focus on and what to ignore.

I'm not saying that there are things in the chart that aren't important or insightful because EVERYTHING in it has meaning.

But, trying to take it all in at once is information overload!

​If you want to understand every tiny detail of a chart and have years to spend on it, go for it.

And that can feel tricky.

One thing that makes this tricky is that astrologers you may follow each have their own ideas about which planets to start with.

Some advice I heard from the great astrologer, Stephen Forrest, is that different methods aren’t wrong - they’re just different.

With this in mind, you can pick a method that feels right for you and go with it - no need to overthink.

​Here is how I approach a chart when determining which planets to focus on first:

Those two planets alone represent a big chunk of the puzzle.

​Only dive deeper when you feel you have a good handle on the Sun and Moon.

And you will get a sense of the story your natal chart is telling.

So start slow. 

Have a narrow focus and add in more planets only as you feel ready.

At that point, other planets you add to the story probably won't change the plot entirely.

They will add more complexity, twists & turns.